Tree Creative Director Abigael Whittaker sat down with Curtis to talk about her journey.

Tell us a little bit about your background and how you got into modelling… When I saw you I knew straight away that I wanted to work with you! You have such a beautiful energy that shines through your work. Is modelling something that you have always wanted to do?

I guess I’ve always been interested in fashion, but I always thought myself as someone who would work more behind the scenes with more creative work like styling or photography or design. Modelling came to me as a bit of a surprise when I was scouted, I’d been doing little shots for friends on and off for fun when Jovita from FiveTwenty found me.

Can you tell us a little bit about working on Imaginarium?

Working on the Imaginarium campaign was so much fun, shooting in Byron Bay was a new experience for me, as I’d never been, and one I’ll definitely never forget. The landscape around us and the country side on location was spectacular and everyone on set had a really good relaxed vibe, it barely felt like working!

Apart from being such a beauty we were delighted to represent a transgender woman in our campaign, can you tell us about your experience as a transgender model and any advice to other young models?

It’s been an interesting experience coming out as a trans model the last few years. I’ve always naturally done more work that has bent the traditional ideas of gender being more androgynous, it’s been wonderful to receive the level of respect As a trans woman from my agency and creatives within the industry. Although I will say it’s not an easy road, in Sydney and Australia we still have a long way to go as far as diversity and acceptance. For any young models or creatives aiming to work in fashion I say keep pushing and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t.

Favourite female icons?

My fave female icons would have to be miss Jane Birkin, Patti Smith, Kate Moss of course and Björk

Finally, what are your holiday plans and how do you relax after a big day in front of the camera…

My holiday plans are working sadly. Christmas retail is always fun.. but hopefully getting down to Melbourne in the New Year. After a big day on a shoot I relax with a good cup of ginger tea, put on a mud mask and binge watch Ab Fab.